Episodes

An Episode is defined as an occurrence that is distinctive and separate although part of a larger event, series, or story. When applied to training, an episode is designed to provide and enhance opportunities for adult learning using existing events and technology.

Let's start by looking at the training model with which most of us are familiar. In that model, you bring people to central location for a workshop or seminar lasting one to five days, related to a specific topic or topics, using lectures, readings, role-plays, etc.

However, in today's business environment, that is not what many clients want. They want cost-effective learning options that are delivered either onsite, close by, or electronically, and use existing resources. They want this training to produce results in terms of improved skills/capabilities and their effect on the bottom line. It is the opinion of Dr. Michael Maginn and myself that the best way to meet these requirements is by using assignment-based training that is linked to strategy, leverages existing technology, and includes roles for experts as coaches and for managers as facilitators. That's why we've come up with a new approach to training which we call the Learning Story.

It begins with Assess Content by gathering performance data and pinpointing learning gaps. You can then Identify Available Opportunities by optimizing time during already scheduled events such as sales meetings, annual meetings, conferences, etc. You can also use webinars or virtual classrooms. Next, you Design Learning Experiences that are interesting and relevant, while including clear step-by-step instructions, built-in debrief questions and structured follow-up activities. Finally, you Implement Episodes using a four-step process comprising each episode:

A key to the implementation is that each individual content area (i.e., "Questioning and Listening" or "Discussing Team Roles") adheres to the same process, with its own structured activities and follow-up. By doing this, you enable the learners to internalize and solidify their use of the skills, processes, or knowledge.

Additionally, the delivery of each episode by a manager or someone else from within the organization, as opposed to a trainer from outside, helps to ensure greater management commitment and better employee acceptance of the training. Use of this Episodes process will go a long way to ensuring content retention while meeting the needs of the modern business environment.